If you have participated in any remote global mobility seminars over the past few months, you have heard corporate mobility professionals discussing the need for policy changes for assignees due to the COVID pandemic. Alternatives to long-term assignments such as short-term stays, one-way transfers, and commuter assignments are gaining attention and have been on the […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Commuter.jpg483724Cathy Heynehttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgCathy Heyne2020-09-08 15:07:092020-09-08 15:07:15The rise of the commuters
Hurricane season is upon North America. The Atlantic season runs from June 1 to November 30, peaking from mid-August to late October. The Eastern Pacific season runs from May 15 to November 30. The Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico are very active this time of year. In fact, 2020 has already broken […]
Which important law went into effect in Turkey in 1934 and is still in use today? Made Islam the official state religion. Banned the then-latest new technology: television. Mandated that all people have surnames. Outlawed tipping. Click here for the answer!
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Turkish-Mosque.jpg483724Michael Caddenhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgMichael Cadden2020-08-18 16:19:492020-08-18 16:27:23Which important law went into effect in Turkey in 1934?
These days, many of us would benefit from a good, therapeutic scream! Fortunately, the country of Iceland has stepped up to the task. Since travel remains limited throughout the globe, the website Looks Like You Need Iceland invites visitors to “let it out” virtually. Read through the tips for scream preparation, offered by Icelandic therapist […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Scream.jpg483724Erin Fitzgeraldhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgErin Fitzgerald2020-07-29 15:56:232020-07-29 15:56:23Looks Like You Need...
Any life transition brings fear of the unknown, and moving ranks high among major life events. The emotional impact of moving home, whether domestically or abroad, is one of the most stressful situations we can experience. Some find the transition after relocating easier than others. Here are some steps you can take toward emotional well-being […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Moving-family.jpg400873Cathy Heynehttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgCathy Heyne2020-07-24 20:40:572020-07-24 20:43:09The Art of Moving
Have you or someone you know been separated from an elderly loved one during the pandemic? Maybe your situation is as simple as not being able to visit a parent or grandparent because of their age or risk factors, or because you live in a hot spot and can’t risk traveling to them. Perhaps an […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Facetiming-parents.jpg483724Ellen Harrishttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgEllen Harris2020-07-24 20:33:392020-07-24 20:38:40Caring for Elders During the Pandemic
Traffic accidents are the number one source of fatalities for international assignees and business travelers. While drivers can mitigate accident risks by adhering to local traffic laws and using seat belts, other strategies can also help. Since 2007, United Parcel Service (UPS) drivers have been instructed to avoid left turns. They have found this practice […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Left-turn.jpg483724Michael Caddenhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgMichael Cadden2020-07-10 18:53:062020-07-10 18:59:20Is it safer to turn right or turn left when driving abroad?
Due to COVID-19, the Fifth Pillar of Islam will be limited to a very small group of followers this year. The Hajj is a week-long pilgrimage to the city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It takes place during the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar — beginning on July 28th, in […]
As borders start to open, assignments that were on hold will start to move forward. No matter how much someone prepares to move internationally, there are always surprises along the way. Here are a few common concerns you can address before your assignee moves abroad: It seems more expensive. The COLA or cost of living […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Supermarket.jpg483724Cathy Heynehttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgCathy Heyne2020-06-24 19:47:442020-06-24 19:47:44What every assignee wants to know
When those of us in Global Mobility talk about “talent,” we normally mean a person with skills, aptitude, and experience particularly suited to a job or project. But during the pandemic, we’ve discovered new ways to appreciate a different kind of talent. With performing arts venues closed, musicians, dancers, actors, and comedians have made their […]
Some countries are opening up their borders. Which country uses the following hand gesture to summon people and is now opening its borders? “If you need to beckon someone, do not do so by moving a single finger towards you. Instead, extend your arm palm down and move your fingers up and down.” Iceland South […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Borders-open.jpg483724Michael Caddenhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgMichael Cadden2020-06-24 19:36:332020-06-24 19:36:33In which country will you be beckoned this way?
In what feel like new and overwhelming times, it can be helpful to look at the familiar. Here are five articles from the Living Abroad blog that are as useful now as they were on their dates of publication, before the pandemic: What You Should Know: Emergency Readiness offers a checklist of things you can […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Useful-articles.jpg418836Erin Fitzgeraldhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgErin Fitzgerald2020-06-24 19:30:132020-06-24 19:30:13Looking at the familiar
While the pandemic has pushed telecommuting and online interaction to all-time highs, another unfortunate Internet activity has also been on the rise: cybercrime. Criminals exploit COVID-19 fears and our new online reliance with schemes that range from spreading misinformation about the virus to creating e-commerce links to protective gear that capture a victim’s personal information. […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Cybercrime.jpg483724Cathy Heynehttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgCathy Heyne2020-05-29 19:03:102020-05-29 19:05:47Attack of the Zombies
How many of you took part in ERC’s “Road to Recovery” virtual conference last week? The sessions I attended were very informative, packed with data, ideas, and resources. Despite being unable to meet in person, session benefits were more than the sum of their parts this time. As we all work in varying degrees of […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Working-remotely.jpg484722Ellen Harrishttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgEllen Harris2020-05-29 18:57:492020-05-29 19:00:56Remote work now and in the future
In which country should you tip ALL of these people? Grocery bagger Parking lot attendant Valet parking attendant Gas station attendant Garbage collector Taxi driver Delivery person Hairdresser Hotel bellman Airport porter a. USA b. Mexico c. Argentina d. Switzerland e. Australia Click here […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Tipping-in-Mexico.jpg483724Michael Caddenhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgMichael Cadden2020-05-29 18:56:042020-05-29 18:58:29Whom should you tip?
Since much of the world’s interaction has moved online for practical purposes, it’s not surprising that business communication application use has surged. Among others, Skype, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and especially Zoom have all seen an exponential rise in downloads and usage over the last few weeks. The growth in teleconferencing and other types of […]
The handshake is a common worldwide greeting, but will we continue to shake hands after the quarantine ends? With most people using gloves and a mask, the germ transferring ritual of a handshake has disappeared despite the cultural significance. “The handshake wasn’t born out of courtesy or goodwill, but fear,” said Pamela Eyring, president of […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Handshake-copy.jpg483724Cathy Heynehttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgCathy Heyne2020-04-30 16:41:022020-04-30 16:42:05Hand grasping no more
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many firms and organizations to ‘go virtual’ for those whose jobs allow this. It has also created awkward situations for assignees and their sponsoring companies when borders are closed and “shelter in place” orders are given. Our current environment, combined with advanced communication technologies, will have an impact on jobs. […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Working-from-home.jpg483724Michael Caddenhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgMichael Cadden2020-04-16 01:29:572020-04-16 01:29:57Virtual Assignments During the Pandemic
More than half of the world’s population is currently under directives to stay at home. Now, more than ever, traveling virtually can be an interesting, entertaining, and stress alleviating experience. Here’s a selection of virtual getaways, all in destinations covered by Living Abroad: Open Air Museum in La Pincoya (Chile) Live webcams at the Panama […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/International-Space-Station.jpg471740Erin Fitzgeraldhttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgErin Fitzgerald2020-04-13 14:16:232020-04-13 14:16:23Interested in a virtual trip?
I bet we’re all tired of the depressing news reports all day long. As the news is currently reported, it’s easy to feel that 90 percent of the world is a disaster and reporters are working to prove this. We usually don’t hear about the millions of successes, only the one failure a million times. Our mental […]
https://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Screen-Shot-2020-04-01-at-9.13.58-AM.png6741502Cathy Heynehttps://www.livingabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/color2.svgCathy Heyne2020-04-02 22:05:122020-04-02 22:10:06Gimme some good news
The rise of the commuters
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Cathy HeyneIf you have participated in any remote global mobility seminars over the past few months, you have heard corporate mobility professionals discussing the need for policy changes for assignees due to the COVID pandemic. Alternatives to long-term assignments such as short-term stays, one-way transfers, and commuter assignments are gaining attention and have been on the […]
Are you ready?
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Ellen HarrisHurricane season is upon North America. The Atlantic season runs from June 1 to November 30, peaking from mid-August to late October. The Eastern Pacific season runs from May 15 to November 30. The Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico are very active this time of year. In fact, 2020 has already broken […]
Which important law went into effect in Turkey in 1934?
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Michael CaddenWhich important law went into effect in Turkey in 1934 and is still in use today? Made Islam the official state religion. Banned the then-latest new technology: television. Mandated that all people have surnames. Outlawed tipping. Click here for the answer!
Looks Like You Need…
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Erin FitzgeraldThese days, many of us would benefit from a good, therapeutic scream! Fortunately, the country of Iceland has stepped up to the task. Since travel remains limited throughout the globe, the website Looks Like You Need Iceland invites visitors to “let it out” virtually. Read through the tips for scream preparation, offered by Icelandic therapist […]
The Art of Moving
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Cathy HeyneAny life transition brings fear of the unknown, and moving ranks high among major life events. The emotional impact of moving home, whether domestically or abroad, is one of the most stressful situations we can experience. Some find the transition after relocating easier than others. Here are some steps you can take toward emotional well-being […]
Caring for Elders During the Pandemic
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Ellen HarrisHave you or someone you know been separated from an elderly loved one during the pandemic? Maybe your situation is as simple as not being able to visit a parent or grandparent because of their age or risk factors, or because you live in a hot spot and can’t risk traveling to them. Perhaps an […]
Is it safer to turn right or turn left when driving abroad?
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Michael CaddenTraffic accidents are the number one source of fatalities for international assignees and business travelers. While drivers can mitigate accident risks by adhering to local traffic laws and using seat belts, other strategies can also help. Since 2007, United Parcel Service (UPS) drivers have been instructed to avoid left turns. They have found this practice […]
Hajj during COVID-19
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Erin FitzgeraldDue to COVID-19, the Fifth Pillar of Islam will be limited to a very small group of followers this year. The Hajj is a week-long pilgrimage to the city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It takes place during the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar — beginning on July 28th, in […]
What every assignee wants to know
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Cathy HeyneAs borders start to open, assignments that were on hold will start to move forward. No matter how much someone prepares to move internationally, there are always surprises along the way. Here are a few common concerns you can address before your assignee moves abroad: It seems more expensive. The COLA or cost of living […]
The Sounds of Solace
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Ellen HarrisWhen those of us in Global Mobility talk about “talent,” we normally mean a person with skills, aptitude, and experience particularly suited to a job or project. But during the pandemic, we’ve discovered new ways to appreciate a different kind of talent. With performing arts venues closed, musicians, dancers, actors, and comedians have made their […]
In which country will you be beckoned this way?
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Michael CaddenSome countries are opening up their borders. Which country uses the following hand gesture to summon people and is now opening its borders? “If you need to beckon someone, do not do so by moving a single finger towards you. Instead, extend your arm palm down and move your fingers up and down.” Iceland South […]
Looking at the familiar
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Erin FitzgeraldIn what feel like new and overwhelming times, it can be helpful to look at the familiar. Here are five articles from the Living Abroad blog that are as useful now as they were on their dates of publication, before the pandemic: What You Should Know: Emergency Readiness offers a checklist of things you can […]
Attack of the Zombies
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Cathy HeyneWhile the pandemic has pushed telecommuting and online interaction to all-time highs, another unfortunate Internet activity has also been on the rise: cybercrime. Criminals exploit COVID-19 fears and our new online reliance with schemes that range from spreading misinformation about the virus to creating e-commerce links to protective gear that capture a victim’s personal information. […]
Remote work now and in the future
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Ellen HarrisHow many of you took part in ERC’s “Road to Recovery” virtual conference last week? The sessions I attended were very informative, packed with data, ideas, and resources. Despite being unable to meet in person, session benefits were more than the sum of their parts this time. As we all work in varying degrees of […]
Whom should you tip?
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Michael CaddenIn which country should you tip ALL of these people? Grocery bagger Parking lot attendant Valet parking attendant Gas station attendant Garbage collector Taxi driver Delivery person Hairdresser Hotel bellman Airport porter a. USA b. Mexico c. Argentina d. Switzerland e. Australia Click here […]
Don’t be late!
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Erin FitzgeraldSince much of the world’s interaction has moved online for practical purposes, it’s not surprising that business communication application use has surged. Among others, Skype, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and especially Zoom have all seen an exponential rise in downloads and usage over the last few weeks. The growth in teleconferencing and other types of […]
Hand grasping no more
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Cathy HeyneThe handshake is a common worldwide greeting, but will we continue to shake hands after the quarantine ends? With most people using gloves and a mask, the germ transferring ritual of a handshake has disappeared despite the cultural significance. “The handshake wasn’t born out of courtesy or goodwill, but fear,” said Pamela Eyring, president of […]
Virtual Assignments During the Pandemic
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Michael CaddenThe Covid-19 pandemic has caused many firms and organizations to ‘go virtual’ for those whose jobs allow this. It has also created awkward situations for assignees and their sponsoring companies when borders are closed and “shelter in place” orders are given. Our current environment, combined with advanced communication technologies, will have an impact on jobs. […]
Interested in a virtual trip?
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Erin FitzgeraldMore than half of the world’s population is currently under directives to stay at home. Now, more than ever, traveling virtually can be an interesting, entertaining, and stress alleviating experience. Here’s a selection of virtual getaways, all in destinations covered by Living Abroad: Open Air Museum in La Pincoya (Chile) Live webcams at the Panama […]
Gimme some good news
/in Articles, Home Page News Message /by Cathy HeyneI bet we’re all tired of the depressing news reports all day long. As the news is currently reported, it’s easy to feel that 90 percent of the world is a disaster and reporters are working to prove this. We usually don’t hear about the millions of successes, only the one failure a million times. Our mental […]